Method and device for accepting postal items

ABSTRACT

There is provided a method for receiving mailpieces in a container. An exemplary method comprises receiving a mailpiece in the container, storing the mailpiece in the container, and removing the mailpiece from the container. The exemplary method also comprises recording a removal procedure. The exemplary method additionally comprises storing and/or transmitting removal data about the removal procedure using an interaction device associated with the container, the interaction device comprising a transponder located in a Faraday cage.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 371, this application is the United States National Stage Application of International Patent Application No. PCT/EP2007/010867, filed on Dec. 12, 2007, the contents of which are incorporated by reference as if set forth in their entirety herein, which claims priority to German (DE) Patent Application No. 10 2006 059 773.7, filed Dec. 15, 2006, the contents of which are incorporated by reference as if set forth in their entirety herein.

BACKGROUND

For the collection of mail items, it is a known procedure to employ collecting containers that are designed so that, when mail is dropped in, they allow the storage of the mailpieces and also prevent access to mail already in the box. When it comes to mailboxes, the insertion slot is normally configured to be so narrow that it is not possible to access the mail that has already been dropped in.

Also in the realm of the collection of larger mail items such as packages and parcels, it is a known procedure to employ containers to collect such items. For instance, German Preliminary Published Application DE 103 51 475 A9 describes a mailbox for collecting packages that has an insertion opening and a storage space arranged below the insertion opening. There is a flap that can be pivoted about an axis that runs horizontally and, in the resting position, this flap closes the insertion opening. When a user wants to drop in a package, pivots the flap forward toward himself and inserts the package. Here, the flap is configured in such a manner that, when it is open, it does not allow access to the packages that have already been dropped into the storage space. When the flap is closed, the entrance to the storage space is open and the package falls into the container.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An exemplary embodiment of the present invention relates to a method for receiving mailpieces. Exemplary embodiments of the present invention may also relate to a device for carrying out said method.

An exemplary embodiment of the present invention relates to a method for receiving mailpieces that allows the placement of the mailpieces into a collecting device.

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention may also relate to a device for carrying out said method.

An exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises a method for receiving mailpieces in a container.

This method may comprise the following steps:

-   -   receiving a mailpiece in the container,     -   storing the mailpiece in the container,     -   removing the mailpiece from the container,     -   recording a removal procedure,     -   storing and/or transmitting removal data about the removal         procedure.

The removal data includes especially information about one or more of the following listed events:

-   -   information indicating that a removal has taken place;     -   information about the point in time of the removal;     -   information about the place of the removal;     -   information about the volume of removed mailpieces;     -   information about the number of removed mailpieces;     -   information about the identification of at least some individual         items among the removed mailpieces;     -   identification information about the removal means that was         employed;     -   identification information identifying the person picking up the         mailpieces.

An exemplary embodiment of the present invention can be carried out with a plurality of devices and is thus not limited to individual devices.

A device for receiving mailpieces, comprising a container for receiving the mailpieces and a removal site for removing the mailpieces according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises an interaction device that is configured in such a way that it can interact with a detection device.

A refinement of the method, of the device and of the container according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the mailpieces are dropped off in a logistics system and that at least one processing step that takes place in the logistics system is carried out as a function of the removal data.

An exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises a logistics system that automates and considerably simplifies the transportation of mailpieces to intended recipients.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a logistics system is provided that is characterized by especially high security and reliability.

The term logistics system is to be understood in a broad sense within the scope of the invention. In particular, it encompasses systems that are adapted to carry out the transportation of mailpieces from drop-off locations to delivery locations on the transportation route, preferably within a postal distribution network.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the removal data is stored and/or transmitted by an interaction device associated with the container.

This makes it possible to ascertain an emptying procedure and, if applicable, to transmit it—especially for tracing purposes—or to store it—especially for tracking purposes, for example, when the container is removed from a stationary device provided for holding it.

Moreover, it is advantageous for the removal data to be stored and/or transmitted by an interaction with a stationary device for holding the container.

The storage and/or the transmission of the removal data is especially advantageous in order to achieve one or more of the following objectives:

-   -   proof that the device was emptied;     -   transmission of the point in time when the mailpieces were         removed from the device (for tracking the mailpieces that were         dropped off in the device or container) and/or storage of the         point in time of the removal of the mailpieces from the device         (for tracing the dropped-off mailpieces).

Such information comprises especially preferred examples of removal data according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

In addition to information indicating that a removal has taken place, additional removal data can also be recorded and, if applicable, transmitted and/or stored.

The removal data can also be, for example, information about the filling level of the containers.

In particular, an exemplary embodiment of the present invention entails the possibility of carrying out evaluations of the filling level of devices for holding mailpieces and using this information to select a location and/or to specify the frequency with which removals have to be carried out.

The removal data can also include additional information, for example, deficiency reports, for example, about damage or dirt.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the interaction device comprises an information memory.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the information memory contains an identifier.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the identifier identifies the container.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the information memory is permanently joined to the container.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the identifier identifies a stationary device for holding the container.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the information memory is permanently joined to the stationary device.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that opening the container is considered to be a confirmation of a removal procedure of that particular container.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that opening the device containing the container is considered to be a removal procedure for the container.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that information about at least one mailpiece is recorded, said information being associated with a mailpiece.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the recorded information is one or more codes that identify the mailpiece or mailpieces.

This makes it possible to improve tracking and/or tracing of the mailpieces in a simple and reliable manner.

An exemplary embodiment of the present invention improves logistical functions. Moreover, in an especially simple and practical manner, an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a logistics system that allows tracking and tracing for many mailpieces.

The drop-off location is, for example, the described device for receiving mailpieces. This device is part of the logistics system for handling the object that is to be transported. The delivery location is preferably selected by the party that commissioned the transport. In the case of returns, this is, for example, a warehouse of a retailer or manufacturer.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that a person picking up the mailpieces ends the removal procedure by selecting a corresponding function on an input device.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system is characterized in that the input device is located in an area of the stationary device.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the input device is located in an area of the container.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that, after the container and/or the device provided for receiving the container has been opened, the container and/or the device provided for receiving the container is blocked in such a way that any further removal is prevented.

Advantageously, any further removal is only possible after a given event occurs—for example, the input of a code key—or else after a predefinable time interval.

This has the advantage that the risk of fraudulent removal of mailpieces from the device or container is diminished.

Blocking of a removal procedure can also be carried out as a function of additional parameters.

For example, it is possible to specify periods of time for the removal. It can also be specified that removals outside of the removal periods of time are prevented by blocking the device and/or the container.

As an alternative, removal procedures outside of the defined removal times can be logged and stored and/or transmitted.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the controller ensures that an opened container can only be closed by the person picking up the mailpieces if information that is associated with at least one mailpiece has first been recorded.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the controller ensures that an opened device can only be closed by the person picking up the mailpieces once removal data has been recorded.

In an especially simple and reliable manner, this ensures that the removal data is recorded.

It is advantageous to use the removal data recorded according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention in order to control logistical procedures in the logistics system.

A refinement of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that at last one processing procedure in the logistics system is carried out as a function of the removal data.

Thus, for example, it is possible to regulate capacities in processing centers for the mailpieces—especially in mail or parcel centers—as a function of the removal data.

Moreover, it is advantageous to evaluate whether a removal procedure was not carried out within a prescribed time interval—especially not by the latest possible pick-up time. In this case, it is advantageous to generate an appropriate pick-up order.

In a refinement of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the generated pick-up order is recorded as the destination or as an interim stop in a navigation system of a vehicle.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the controller of the container ensures that a container pops open again automatically if no information that is associated with a mailpiece is or has been recorded.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the controller ensures that the container pops open again automatically if no removal data is or has been recorded.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the controller ensures that the device is opened up again automatically if no information that is associated with a mailpiece is or has been recorded.

A refinement of the method, of the device, of the container and of the logistics system according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the controller ensures that the device is opened up again if no removal data is or has been recorded.

An exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises a plurality of detection devices for removal procedures.

Advantageous refinements of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprise detection devices that are located in an area of the device and/or of a container contained in the device.

However, it is likewise possible that the detection devices involve the use of at least one reading device that can interact with the device and/or with the container contained in the device.

A refinement provides that the interaction device comprises at least one transponder.

A preferred embodiment of the invention provides that the transponder is located inside the device.

In order to prevent an inadvertent reading out of the transponder and/or a fraudulent reading out of the transponder—especially by persons who are not authorized to remove the mailpieces—it is advantageous for the transponder to be located in a Faraday cage.

A refinement provides that the Faraday cage is formed, at least in sections, by a wall of the device or of one of the containers contained therein for holding mailpieces.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a device for measuring the filling level is located in the storage space and serves as a removal detection device.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a catching device is arranged inside the storage space.

In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, a lip is installed at the of the roller shutter facing the storage space and it serves as a device for measuring the filling level. The lip is deflected when it makes contact with an object in the storage space and it is in communication with an evaluation means that reports the need for a removal of mailpieces when a defined deflection of the lip is reached.

It is especially advantageous to equip the device and/or the container in such a way that the transponder is located in an area of the device and/or of the container that is not accessible from the outside.

An interaction of the transponder with a reading unit provided for the transaction can be recorded as a removal procedure.

Moreover, it is possible to record the removal procedure in another manner.

In order to detect information, it is advantageous to use at least one sensor. The sensor is, for example, an optical sensor and/or a weight sensor.

Preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention comprise sensor-transponder units in which a sensor and a transponder are connected to each other. Here, it is possible that measured data detected by the sensor is transmitted to the transponder and detected via the transponder—preferably by a reading unit.

In a refinement of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a filling level sensor, for example, is provided. This makes it possible to automatically check whether an emptying procedure has taken place.

The exemplary embodiments shown make it possible to ensure that a removal procedure is only registered once the device and/or the container have been opened.

The sensors provided in a refinement of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention also make it possible to substantiate that the removal has actually taken place.

Moreover, it is possible to provide the device with a suitable evaluation unit. This evaluation unit can be used, for example, to check whether a person picking up the mailpieces is authorized to open the device and/or the container.

Here, an identification of the person picking up the mailpieces is advantageous.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the method is carried out in a device that will also be referred to below as a drop-off station. The device has a housing that is not accessible to a customer. The term customer is used to refer to a person who drops off mailpieces at the device for purposes of franking. As soon as the customer has placed the mailpieces into the device, or she no longer has the possibility to gain access to the mailpieces. However, the device is accessible to service personnel who have access to the various technical components. For this purpose, one or more closable doors can be provided that grant access to the technical parts of the device. The device is also accessible to employees of the operator of the device, who remove dropped-off mailpieces and take them to the transportation and delivery process.

For the pick-up and subsequent transportation, the delivered mailpieces are preferably collected in a container that is likewise accessible through a lockable door. The container is, for example, a mailbag that can be hung in the device in such a way that the franked mailpieces are collected in it. The filled mailbag can be removed and replaced by an empty bag. The collecting container, however, can also be other replaceable containers such as boxes. In another exemplary embodiment, the mailpieces are collected inside the device and transferred to a separate container when an employee picks them up. With all of the variants, it can be provided that the device checks the filling level of the collecting container in question. If the collecting container is filled up to a predefinable level, the operator of the device is notified that it needs to be emptied. Moreover, the receipt of additional mailpieces at the device can be refused.

In order to be used in outdoor areas, the device is advantageously configured to be tamper-proof and weather-resistant. It is preferably set up in public places and allows 24-hour operation. As a result, a customer can drop off mailpieces at any time without having to take into account the opening times of the branch offices.

The device has a receiving device for receiving mailpieces. This receiving device is preferably an individuating mechanism for feeding a stack of mailpieces into the device one at a time. The individuating mechanism can be a prior-art device that allows the individuation. The customer places a stack of mailpieces, for example, into a receiving opening and closes the cover flap behind which the mailpieces are fed in. Individual mailpieces can likewise be received by the device via the feed mechanism. The device can also have a slit like conventional mailboxes so that individual mailpieces can be dropped in.

Preferably, the device can receive franked as well as unfranked mailpieces. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the device is configured in such a way that it cannot distinguish between these two types of mailpieces. In this case, the customer is prompted to insert franked or unfranked mailpieces, and to indicate what type of mailpieces they are. If the device has a detector to distinguish between unfranked and franked mailpieces, then the customer can insert a mixture of mailpieces. The unfranked and franked mailpieces can be recognized, for example, by an evaluation of graphic information on the surface of the mailpiece.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the orientation of the mailpieces inside the device and graphic information on the mailpieces are detected and, on the basis of an evaluation of this information, the mailpieces are rotated and turned over so that they can be printed with a correctly positioned postage indicium on one side. The graphic information is address and/or sender information that is evaluated according to a predefined scheme. In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, printing devices are provided on both sides of the mailpieces so that, on the basis of the detected graphic information, only the side of a mailpiece intended for printing on is ascertained and the appropriate printing device is actuated on this side.

Moreover, the device can provide that the customer has to insert the mailpieces into the device in a specific orientation. For example, if it is required that the mailpiece be inserted in an orientation in which the address field is facing upwards, then the graphic information present on the mailpiece is evaluated on this basis and a mailpiece is rejected again, for example, if the mailpiece was inserted incorrectly. The orientation of a mailpiece can be recognized, for example, by taking a picture of the mailpiece using a digital camera. The picture is taken one line at a time at a fixed distance and a fixed focal length, and subsequently merged to form the total picture. On the basis of this picture and a comparison with previously defined measurements of the address zone of various letter formats, the picture evaluation recognizes whether an address is present in the prescribed address zone. If an address is detected there, then the mailpiece has been inserted incorrectly and further processing is denied. The procedure can be carried out analogously for mailpieces inserted in a portrait orientation rather than landscape orientation.

The device can also comprise containers for dropping off or removing transportation containers. If a customer inserts a large volume of mailpieces into the device, the operator of the drop-off station provides him or her with transportation containers with which or she can transport the mailpieces to the station. So that the customer does not have to take the containers back with him or her again, the containers can be placed into containers of the device. The customer can also remove additional containers from the containers. In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the containers can also be used to hold containers with many mailpieces that preferably already have been franked. They can also hold containers with unfranked mailpieces that are not going to be franked by the device but rather, a subsequent franking procedure carried out by the operator of the device. In the latter two cases, the device serves merely as a receiving device. The access to the containers is preferably coupled to the successful identification of the customer at the device, whereby a container cannot be opened again after the mailpieces have been removed.

In another exemplary embodiment, the drop-off station is combined with a vending machine for dispensing stamps so that a customer can purchase postage indicia of any desired value at the device. The postage indicia can be paid for using cash, a debit card or else by a customer card needed to gain access to the device. In addition to postage indicia, forms or other documents that are normally available at a branch office can be dispensed.

The mailpieces to be deposited can be, for example, of different types that are each associated with certain process steps. In typical logistics systems, for example, in the postal sector, parcels or packages are associated with identifiers such as codes so that the route of a given mailpiece can be controlled and monitored as effectively as possible. Conventionally, such a code has to be detected by a detector when a mailpiece is deposited. For example, a postal number in the form of a scanned code or a character string entered via a keyboard is recorded.

Whereas the recording of a postal number that identifies the mailpiece is advantageously provided for each mailpiece, it is also possible for mailpieces to be encountered that are additionally provided with a special Identcode that likewise has to be scanned before the mailpiece is dropped off. Moreover, it could be a COD mailpiece with COD amounts that have to be entered or any other kind of special mailpiece involving additional steps.

A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the container, of the transportation system and of the computer program product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the reading unit or a data processing unit in communication with it evaluates the removal data.

A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the container, of the transportation system and of the computer program product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the removal data is stored.

A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the container and of the computer program product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the removal data is stored in a storage medium installed in the container.

A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the container, of the transportation system and of the computer program product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the removal data is stored in the reading unit and/or in the data processing unit that is in communication with the reading unit.

An exemplary embodiment of the invention provides that the removal data is stored only in the reading unit and/or in the data processing unit that is in communication with said reading unit. This has the advantage that storage space in the containers is saved so that they can be produced more easily.

A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the container and of the computer program product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the data processing unit carries out an evaluation of the removal data.

A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the container, of the transportation system and of the computer program product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that at least one handling procedure involving the container is carried out as a function of the evaluation.

It is advantageous for the selection of another transportation system to be made, for example, if there is a risk that, if an originally intended transportation route is retained, the mailpieces will have a longer transportation duration than a predefinable target transportation duration.

A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the container, of the transportation system and of the computer program product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that a position of the transponder is determined.

A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the container and of the computer program product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the position of the container is stored.

A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the container, of the transportation system and of the computer program product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that the position is stored in the data processing unit.

A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the container and of the computer program product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the position of the container is determined and that the position of the container is associated with the obtained removal data.

A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the container, of the transportation system and of the computer program product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that energy is supplied to the transponder.

A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the container and of the computer program product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the energy is supplied via the reading unit.

A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the container, of the transportation system and of the computer program product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that an interlayer absorbs electromagnetic radiation.

A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the container and of the computer program product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the interlayer reflects electromagnetic radiation.

Many types of transponders are suitable for use according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Special preference is given to transponders that serve as transmitting and/or receiving devices. In particular, these are receiving devices that, after receiving an external signal, are capable of transmitting a signal of their own.

As used herein, the term “transponder” is short for “transmitter” and “(signal) responder”.

Special preference is given to the use of transponders that are provided with at least one identifier. Below, such transponders are also referred to as RFID tags.

It is advantageous to replace or augment a visually detectable identification of objects in transportation or logistics systems using RFID technologies involving transponders that can be written and read electronically multiple times. Such systems have the advantage that a great deal of information can be electronically written into and read out of a transponder, as a result of which automatic transportation, sorting, tracking or distribution procedures can be controlled without information having to be displayed visually.

A transponder with identifiers (RFID tags) is preferably configured as an RFID tag. An RFID tag may comprise a microchip and an antenna. A code containing processing-relevant information is stored on the chip. In particular, this information is identification information (ID).

Transponders may be configured in such a way that, in response to a triggering (radio) signal from a reading device, they themselves transmit and/or receive signals. Active transponders contain a source of energy for their operation. In contrast, passive transponders obtain energy from the signals transmitted by the reading device.

The technical realization of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention preferably comprises a database containing information about the goods to be delivered and about at least one device provided for receiving the mailpieces.

It is especially advantageous for the database to contain information about several devices for receiving mailpieces.

The transmission of selected, compressed and/or reduced values has the advantage that storage and transmission capacities can be utilized more efficiently.

Numerous types of reading devices are possible when transponders are used for relaying the measured values.

-   -   Antennas are used that are tuned to the specific wavelength of         the electromagnetic radiation of the transponders.

It is especially advantageous for the reading unit that is going to be used in each case to be equipped with the BRM function known from the state of the art.

The BRM function (Buffered Read Mode=data filtering and data storage) ensures that the data from transponders that have already been read out are buffered in the reader and is only read out once. This advantage plays a role in applications with bulk recognition (anti-collision) since only “new” transponders are read out each time. Consequently, this increases the data transfer speed.

The information acquired in this manner is subsequently further processed.

Various transmission modalities can be employed for the transmission to the reading unit.

The reading unit is arranged in a transportation system for the container, in a warehouse or in a processing center for the container.

A data processing unit that can preferably be in communication with the reading unit receives this removal data from the reading unit.

A refinement of the method is characterized in that the position of the container is determined by a position-finding device that is in communication with the container, and the position of the container is associated with the obtained removal data. In this case, the position of the container can be determined by a position-finding device directly on the container or on a transportation system with which the container is being transported. If the position-finding device is situated on an appertaining transportation system, it is preferably in communication with the data processing unit of the container.

The position of the container can be determined, for example, by a position-finding device in the form of a GSM module, a GPS module, and/or a direction-finding transmitter. The various position-finding devices can be used as a function of the required precision of the position determination, whereby they can be used either perpendicularly or in parallel.

A refinement of the method, of the logistics system, of the container and of the computer program product according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides that the removal data obtained from the sensors is compared to set points, whereby a deviation from a set point is considered as an alarm. The removal data is preferably compared in that the measured electrical properties of the conductive layers are compared to a set point of the electrical properties. Here, it can be provided that a deviation of the physical properties of the container material from a set point is not considered as an alarm if the deviation is associated with a position of the container that is stored in the data processing unit as a position in which it is permissible to open the container.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the removal data obtained from the sensor is transmitted to a communication module on the container and the communication module transmits the removal data to a message-receiving device.

A refinement of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides for the use of at least one transponder as the communication module.

The removal data can be transmitted from the communication module to the message-receiving device along the transportation route or after the container has reached the destination. Preferably, the removal data is only transmitted along the transportation route if a comparison within the data processing unit indicates that a deviation from set points—especially from target times for pick-up procedures (receiving procedures)—has occurred.

The determination of the position of the container and the association of the position with the removal data obtained from the sensor is preferably carried out in the data processing unit of the container, but this can also be done in the message-receiving device or in the monitoring center.

Another exemplary embodiment of the invention provides that the container is equipped with a detection device for registering the mailpieces in the container and that data about the detected mailpieces is transmitted to the data processing unit.

As the detection device, an antenna, for example, can be provided. The mailpieces are registered in that the RFID tags located on the mailpieces are read out when the RFID tags are moved past the antenna during a removal procedure of the mailpieces.

Moreover, the container can be provided with a bulk detection device that detects the mailpieces once all of the mailpieces have been placed into the container.

When the mailpieces are detected, at least the number of mailpieces placed into the containers is registered in the data processing unit. Each mailpieces removed from the container reduces the number of mailpieces recorded in the data processing unit.

In addition to the number of mailpieces placed into the container, preferably additional data about the mailpieces is recorded. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the number of mailpieces and/or additional data about the registered mailpieces is transmitted from the data processing unit to the communication module which then sends the information to a message-receiving device. The message-receiving device can be located, for example, in the vicinity of the receiving location of the mailpieces or in the vicinity of a monitoring center.

This information can be read out and further processed via an interface.

A refinement of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention also comprises—in addition to a method for monitoring a container—a container having a monitor according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

The devices are preferably set up at easily accessible locations so that the customer can decide to drop off a mailpiece flexibly or even spontaneously.

Moreover, through the connection with a central data processing unit, information about the dropped-off mailpieces and/or the removed mailpieces can be updated in the database and the operation of the device can be adapted to changing requirements.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

The figure shows the following:

FIG. 1 is a cross-section view through a device 10 according to the invention for receiving mailpieces.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

The device 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention comprises a container (housing) 20 that encloses a hollow space 40 that is, for example, cuboidal.

The container 20 shown schematically in FIG. 1 for receiving and transporting mailpieces—for example, letters—can be, for instance, a cuboidal container having a bottom surface, four side walls and a lid arrangement. The container can be made of various materials—commonly used for mailboxes—such as wood, plastic, metal or combinations thereof.

The device can be set up in many locations, whereby several devices are preferably provided. In order to ensure the greatest possible flexibility, the devices are located at places that are easily accessible to customers and are preferably available 24 hours per day. Thus, customers can select a time of day that is convenient for them to drop off a mailpiece. It is especially advantageous to set up the devices at locations such as gas stations, department stores or supermarkets that are often visited by customers.

When metal is used as the container material, the container 20 itself forms a Faraday cage. If a material is used that has only a low level of conductivity—for example, a plastic—then it is advantageous to provide preferably the inside of the housing 20 with an electrically conductive coating 30 in order to create a Faraday cage. The electrically conductive—coating 30 is, for example, a layer produced by a conventional coating production method. However, it is likewise possible to use a conventional metal foil—for example, aluminum foil—for this purpose.

By forming a Faraday cage, it is then possible to read a transponder 60 only if a reading device is placed into the container 10. In the exemplary embodiment described here, this is only possible when another container 50, which is located in the container 10 and serves to receive the mailpieces, is removed from the container 10.

It is practical to connect the transponder 60 to a sensor 70, for example, a sensor for measuring the filling level of the mailpieces (filling level measuring device). This connection is preferably made by a connection element 80, for example, a cable strip.

Using the device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the method is carried out as follows:

A person picking up mailpieces opens the container 10 and removes the additional container 50 contained therein.

Immediately after the removal of the container 50, the person picking up the mailpieces holds a reading device in an area of influence of the transponder 60.

In a first exemplary embodiment, an interaction between the transponder 60 and the reading device 70 is considered to be a removal procedure. The background of this detection is that the interaction between the reading device 70 and the transponder 60 can only take place if previously, the container 50 containing the mailpieces was taken out of the device 10.

In a refinement of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the filling level sensor 70, for example, a suitable optical sensor, detects a maximum filling level for the mailpieces.

The person skilled in the art in the realm of logistics systems can adapt the presented device for receiving mailpieces in different ways in order to meet specific postal requirements.

In particular, the mailpieces can be stored directly, also without the use of another container 50, inside the hollow space 40.

Moreover, it is possible to use an exemplary embodiment of the present invention with more complex receiving devices for mailpieces, for example, for the letter stations used by the applicant of this patent application.

When an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is used in electronically controlled devices for receiving mailpieces, it is advantageous to detect a suitable event as the removal procedure.

In an exemplary embodiment, this can also be done in this device in that a container for storing mailpieces is removed and/or tilted in such a way that the mailpieces contained therein are transferred into a suitable transportation container.

Of course, the container 50 that serves for receiving the mailpieces can likewise be used as a transportation container for the mailpieces.

Refinements of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention provide for the container 50 to also be equipped with a transponder. This is especially advantageous if tracking and/or tracing of mailpieces or of the container holding them is desired.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

10 device

20 container (housing)

30 coating

40 hollow space, interior

50 container

60 transponder

70 sensor, reading device

80 connection means 

1.-33. (canceled)
 34. A method for receiving mailpieces in a container, the method comprising: receiving a mailpiece in the container; storing the mailpiece in the container; removing the mailpiece from the container; recording a removal procedure; and storing and/or transmitting removal data about the removal procedure using an interaction device associated with the container, the interaction device comprising a transponder located in a Faraday cage.
 35. The method recited in claim 34, wherein the mailpiece is dropped off in a logistics system, the method comprising performing at least one processing step in the logistics system as a function of the removal data.
 36. The method recited in claim 34, wherein the interaction device comprises an information memory.
 37. The method recited in claim 36, wherein the information memory contains an identifier.
 38. The method recited in claim 37, wherein the identifier identifies the container.
 39. The method recited in claim 37, wherein the identifier identifies a stationary device for holding the container.
 40. The method recited in claim 39, wherein the information memory is permanently joined to the stationary device.
 41. The method recited in claim 36, wherein the information memory is permanently joined to the container.
 42. The method recited in claim 34, confirming a removal procedure for a particular container when the particular container is opened.
 43. The method recited in claim 34, comprising performing a removal procedure for a particular container by opening a device containing the particular container.
 44. The method recited in claim 34, comprising recording information that is associated with at least one mailpiece.
 45. The method recited in claim 44, wherein the recorded information comprises one or more codes that identify the at least one mailpiece.
 46. The method recited in claim 34, comprising ending the removal procedure by selecting a corresponding function on an input device.
 47. The method recited in claim 34, wherein the input device is located in an area of a stationary device for holding the container.
 48. The method recited in claim 34, wherein the input device is located in an area of the container.
 49. The method recited in claim 34, wherein, after the container and/or a device provided for receiving the container has been opened, the container and/or the device provided for receiving the container is blocked in such a way that any further removal is prevented.
 50. The method recited in claim 34, comprising allowing the container to be closed by a person picking up the mailpiece only if information that is associated with the mailpiece has first been recorded.
 51. The method recited in claim 34, comprising allowing the container to be closed by a person picking up the mailpiece only if the removal data has been recorded.
 52. The method recited in claim 34, comprising opening the container automatically if no information that is associated with the mailpiece is or has been recorded.
 53. The method recited in claim 34, comprising opening the container automatically if no removal data is or has been recorded.
 54. A device for receiving mailpieces, comprising: a detection device; a container for receiving the mailpieces, the container containing an interaction device that is configured to interact with the detection device, the interaction device comprising a transponder located in a Faraday cage; and a removal site for removing the mailpieces.
 55. The device recited in claim 54, wherein the transponder is located inside the device.
 56. The device recited in claim 54, wherein the Faraday cage is formed, at least in sections, by containers contained in the device for receiving mailpieces.
 57. A container for receiving mailpieces, the container having an opening through which mailpieces can be inserted, the container comprising: a detection device; and a transponder located in a Faraday cage, the transponder being adapted to interact with the detection device.
 58. A logistics system for receiving and transporting mailpieces, the logistics system comprising: a plurality of devices for receiving mailpieces, each of the plurality of devices for receiving mailpieces comprising: a detection device; a container for receiving the mailpieces, the container containing an interaction device that is configured to interact with the detection device, the interaction device comprising a transponder located in a Faraday cage; and a removal site for removing the mailpieces.
 59. The logistics system recited in claim 58, wherein removal data regarding at least one of the mailpieces influences at least one processing procedure in the logistics system. 